U-Nam - The Past Builds The Future (2005)

U-Nam, the guitarist with a memorable name and an acrobatic, soulful and sweet melodic touch, with “Back From the 80’s” has crafted music firmly rooted in funky smooth jazz but crossing into genres as excitingly diverse as R&B, Hip-Hop, Pop, Rock and Chill. He calls it "Classy, Jazzy, Funky, Frenchy." This remarkable CD, U-Nam’s first for Soulvibe Recordings, offers fresh versions of classic and lesser-known gems from the ‘80’s. But even more remarkable are U-Nam’s brand-new songs inspired by his favorite songs from the decade.

As a fan of contemporary jazz, one can hardly go wrong with a guitarist who lists George Benson as his top influence. U-Nam, who has cleverly reversed and shortened his given name, made his first live U.S. appearance (2007), and is being catapulted further into the well-deserved limelight with his recent JazzTrax radio debut. His 2005 release, The Past Builds the Future, brings that Benson influence to the surface with musical steroids. U-Nam plays more than just guitar, and does it all well with “smokin” energy from beginning to end. He has wasted no time or effort surrounding himself with the best talent, including keyboardist Jeff Lorber, and vocalists Phil Perry and Rahsaan Patterson, to mention only a few, and it shows. Every track is worth a listen .. not a bad track to be found. But I’ll throw out a few faves for starters .. great vocal tracks “Love’s Taken Over” and “Right Here Right Now,” and instrumentals “French Flavor” and “L.A. Party.” This album is a definite keeper.